Delta Police Broker Peace Talks Between SEEPCO, Kwale Community
Police Step In to Avert Escalation
THE Delta State Police Command has intervened in a brewing dispute between Sterling Global Oil Exploration and Energy Production Company Limited and the Umuseti Ogbe Community in Kwale, Ndokwa West Local Government Area.
The peace meeting, convened by the Commissioner of Police, Yemi Oyeniyi, followed a protest notice earlier issued by the community, raising concerns over the company’s operations.
Stakeholders Air Grievances
At the meeting, community leaders, represented by Prime Minister Chief Okwa Akwaligbe on behalf of the Okpara-Ukwu, Sunday Ebo Ogwe, outlined key grievances affecting residents.
High Chief Pedro Akpe also spoke on behalf of the community, highlighting issues that have strained relations between the oil firm and its host community.
In response, SEEPCO’s General Manager for Community and Security, Col. Karmveer Singh, reassured stakeholders of the company’s commitment to maintaining peaceful and mutually beneficial relationships.
Security Agencies Push for Dialogue
Addressing both parties, CP Oyeniyi emphasised that the primary goal of the engagement was not to assign blame but to foster understanding and prevent a breakdown of law and order.
He stressed that while national security remains critical, peace within host communities is equally vital, especially in areas hosting strategic economic assets like oil operations.
The police boss urged both sides to embrace dialogue as the most sustainable path toward resolving disputes.
Joint Inspection Signals Commitment
Following the discussions, the police commissioner and other stakeholders conducted an inspection tour of Umuseti Road in Kwale to assess some of the issues raised during the meeting.
The move was seen as a practical step toward addressing infrastructural and operational concerns highlighted by the community.
Both SEEPCO representatives and community leaders expressed appreciation for the police intervention and pledged to sustain dialogue in pursuit of a peaceful resolution.
